Like the blossoming of flowers in the spring and summer, it seems as if the fertile music scene in southern Oregon is constantly popping up new and fresh festivals—as well as keeping alive those tried and true. These are the Messenger’s five must-see summer festivals in southern Oregon!

Mystic Rising

First on our list is the 13th annual Mystic Rising festival at the New Frontier Ranch (formerly called Box R Ranch) in the mountains outside Ashland. Featuring performers such as singer/songwriter Trevor Hall, Mystic Rising clocks in on the lower/affordable side for “residential” festivals, with a $150 early-bird weekend camping pass. Another notable detail about Mystic Rising is that they are committed to being a zero-waste festival, recycling as much as they can and enforcing a strict pack-it-in, pack-it-out rule. $150 for an Early Bird Weekend Camping Pass, $170 for a regular Weekend Camping Pass, or (as long as they don’t sell out) $200 at the gate on the day(s) of the festival.

Apple Jam

After a bumpy few years with location and lineup difficulties, Apple Jam is back, newly located at the Evans Valley Community Center in Rogue River on May 17-19. Featuring the Kyle Gass Band and the Scott Pemberton Band headlining the first two days respectively, this is shaping up to be a wonderful reboot and rebound year for Apple Jammers. Advance weekend passes available for $70, or $100 the day(s)-of. Single-day passes for $60.

Britt Festival

Although named as a festival, really a string of top-notch touring performers at a premier outdoor venue. Or, sure, consider this a single festival—and that way it makes the entire summer one long party. An amazingly diverse and upbeat lineup, including the rollicking Midwest bluegrass from Trampled by Turtles and a sweetness of Rodrigo Y Gabriella, as well as the good-natured Cake. A beautiful garden, an amazing amphitheater that transforms into a planetarium as the summer nights dim. Just wow! Tickets are available individually through the Britt Festival website.

Jackson County Fair

With the smell of axel grease and sugary elephant ears, county fairs are a summer delight. The carnival fun at the Jackson County soars even higher with their musical entertainment. The Jackson County Fair has really upped their game, bringing in acts like Seether, Andy Grammer, and Chris Janson to perform at the fair grounds this summer from July 10-14. Tickets available at the gate on fair day: $13 for adults (over 13), $6 for Seniors (62-74), and Seniors aged 75+ free!

Hope Mountain Barter Fair

The 17th annual Hope Mountain Barter Fair will take place in Lake Selmac County Park on July 21-23. Infused with gypsy and hippie spirit and a dash of Oregon Country Fair and a pinch of Burning Man, this is three day event looks to transform a space into an experience. Tickets available soon from the Hope Mountain Barter Fair website.